Keep Informed, Be #AlwaysReady: UPOU’s DRRM Dashboard

The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) community takes a lead towards a more disaster-resilient and #AlwaysReady community with Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Dashboard, accessed at drrm.upou.edu.ph. This online resource aims to equip the UPOU community with vital information and tools to prepare for and respond to various emergencies.

The UPOU DRRM Dashboard was introduced last September 2022 when the #AlwaysReady Campaign was launched to equip every member of the UPOU community to be fully prepared for any kind of disaster. 

The dashboard is an all-in-one platform for crucial DRRM resources, including:

• UPOU Incident Command System (ICS):  This includes a list of focal persons who have the authority to make decisions and provide directions to the UPOU, in particular, the UPOU community in general, during emergencies and disasters.
• Emergency Hotlines: This includes information on emergency hotlines.
• Guidelines for responding to disasters: The dashboard provides specific guidelines on responding to various emergencies, including earthquakes, typhoons, floods, fires, and even non-disaster-related situations like political unrest, information security threats, communication crises, biological hazards, and public health emergencies.
• DRRM Activities: This includes information on past and upcoming DRRM initiatives.
• Education and Communication Materials: The dashboard offers various education and communication resources to help users gain a deeper understanding of DRRM, including committee member roles and responsibilities, safety videos, hazard maps, and more.
• DRRM-Related Policies and plans: This includes relevant policies and guidelines and University-Approved plans, including Crisis Communication Plan, Public Service Continuity Plan, DRRM Action Plan, and more.

Why is the UPOU DRRM Dashboard Important?

The UPOU DRRM Dashboard empowers the university community by:

• Providing Clear Guidance: In times of crisis, clear instructions on what to do and who to contact can make all the difference, reducing damages and casualties.
• Identifying Authorities and Responsibilities: Knowing who to turn to during emergencies is crucial for a coordinated response.
• Offering Specific Action Plans: Different emergencies require different actions. The dashboard provides specific guidelines for each hazard, ensuring a well-informed response.
• Promoting Accessibility: By making vital information readily available, the dashboard empowers individuals to take action and potentially save lives.

With the UPOU DRRM Dashboard, the university takes a significant step towards building a more resilient and prepared community. This centralized resource fosters a culture of preparedness, equipping everyone at UPOU with the knowledge and tools to navigate emergencies effectively. 

Other efforts by UPOU DRRM to further equip the UPOU community with emergencies include conducting drills and providing available wheelchairs, emergency tents, and a clinic. By promoting proactive planning and informed responses, the UPOU DRRM significantly reduces disaster risks within the university community.

Written by Zyrene Edrei Villanueva ♦ Edited by Dr. Myra C. Almodiel and Anna Cañas-Llamas 

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